Star Trek Online is going to the free-to-play model

Star Trek Online, is going to be free-to-play later this year, when the free-to-play mode launches, anyone can download and play the game for free without purchasing a retail copy or subscription.

All players will be able to take advantage of Star Trek Onlines many features for free, from customizing avatars, crews and the very ships they command, to exploring a galaxy filled with intrigue and danger.

Players will also be able to access additional features a la carte through a virtual goods store. Current players can become Gold Members by continuing to subscribe to the game for $14.99 a month. New players can also upgrade to Gold status for a set price of $14.99 per month.

Star Trek Online free-to-play features:

The Universe is Your Only Limit  Play as much as you like for as long as you like at no cost. No subscription is required, nor is payment of any kind required.Episodic Gameplay  Experience new weekly episodes that feature story-based gameplay and put your captains ability to command to the ultimate test.Your Captain, Your Crew, Your Destiny  Become a captain, seek out new life and new civilizations and encounter hostile beings as you advance to maximum level for free.Familiar Places, New Experiences  Travel to Starfleet Academy, Deep Space Nine, The First City of QonoS and many other iconic locations and notable worlds from the beloved Star Trek universe.Engage and Explore Your Way  A web and in-game virtual goods store provides players the option of purchasing gameplay upgrades or additional premium content as they like, when they like.

In addition to seeking out new life and exploring strange new civilizations, part of our continuing mission for Star Trek Online is to expand and improve, said Jack Emmert, CEO, Cryptic Studios. Transitioning to a free-to-play model is a natural way to share all weve built with a broader community of players and we couldnt be more excited.